Over the past two decades, the world has witnessed a sharp rise in terrorist attacks affecting nations globally. These incidents have caused widespread insecurity, fear, human rights violations, and hostage situations, impacting millions of lives.
In response, Rwanda has emerged as a leader in proactively addressing terrorism. Guided by its national commitment to security, Rwanda has established robust structures with the Rwanda National Police (RNP) playing a vital role in building advanced counterterrorism capacities.
A flagship initiative of these efforts is the creation of the Counterterrorism Training Center (CTTC), located in Mayange, Bugesera District. This institution serves as the cornerstone of Rwanda’s strategic counterterrorism training and preparation.
Founded in 2013, CTTC specializes in equipping police officers with comprehensive skills to anticipate, prevent, and address terrorist activities. Initially, the center focused on providing elite training that enabled officers to tackle increasingly complex security scenarios.
The center’s inaugural program involved 300 officers receiving training from a team of 60 skilled instructors. Since then, its influence has expanded dramatically.
To date, CTTC has certified over 3,832 officers, offering programs across three primary categories: the Special Force Wing, Counterterrorism and Intelligence Wing, and Specialized and Career Courses Wing. These comprehensive tracks enhance tactical knowledge and operational preparedness.
Training durations span three to six months, immersing participants in cutting-edge topics designed to equip them for real-world challenges posed by terrorist threats. Over time, CTTC has fortified its infrastructure to host more than 2,000 trainees simultaneously.
The facilities at CTTC are state-of-the-art, featuring advanced classrooms, equipped residential training centers, and recreational venues. These provide an optimal environment for honing technical know-how while ensuring a balanced training experience.
CTTC’s effectiveness transcends Rwanda’s borders. The center has established partnerships with regional and international security institutions, inviting officers from nations such as the Central African Republic and South Sudan for advanced counterterrorism training.
Currently, CTTC hosts around 2,000 officers, including teams from Rwanda and abroad, underscoring its pivotal role in international security efforts.
Focused on practical exercises and modern technological solutions, CTTC leverages cutting-edge practices to improve national stability and contribute toward peace within the region.
Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Méthode Munyaneza, the acting director of CTTC, highlighted future plans to broaden the center’s reach. “In the years ahead, CTTC Mayange aims to expand its programs, enhance infrastructure, and improve the standards of instruction,” he stated.
ACP Munyaneza emphasized the importance of providing advanced training to officers with foundational skills, enabling them to tackle terrorism with precision and expertise.
Among CTTC’s notable trainees is Inspector of Police (IP) Godfrey Muzungu, who successfully applied his training in combatting terrorist groups in Mozambique. Muzungu was part of Rwanda’s pioneering security contingent deployed to Mozambique.
Reflecting on his participation, Muzungu stated, “I underwent a year-long intensive training program at CTTC Mayange between 2021 and 2022, preparing me for deployment in Mozambique to confront terrorist threats in Cabo Delgado Province.”
The hands-on training empowered trainees with expertise in tactical planning, weapon management, aerial operations, and building-descending techniques. Muzungu remarked that these skills were pivotal in effectively addressing terrorist threats during Rwanda's mission in Mozambique.
In a world grappling with terrorism, CTTC sets itself apart through proactive training strategies and regional cooperation. Its rigorous programs exemplify that combating terrorism is achievable through well-structured training, teamwork, and tailored expertise.
Beyond counterterrorism, CTTC continues to play an essential role in empowering security personnel with advanced capabilities to confront modern threats. Rwanda’s approach to preparedness not only safeguards its citizens but also extends critical tools to the region.
The trainees are prepared to tackle challenges in diverse terrains, including open water.
Participants in specialized counterterrorism courses practice rappelling techniques down tall buildings.